It has also hired 100 dedicated level crossing managers and introduced a range of safety features.

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In the past five years there have also been more than 500 near misses involving cyclists

Darren Cottrell, head of level crossing safety at Network Rail, says: "Commuters want their journey to or from work to be as quick and easy as possible, and I understand they may find waiting at a level crossing an inconvenience especially after a hard day's work.

"It is important that everyone understands that level crossing warnings are there to keep us all safe, so be vigilant and obey them - even if you're in a hurry.

"Network Rail is investing more than £100m to improve level crossing safety across Britain, but we need motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to do their bit too.

"By paying attention to the warnings at level crossings and avoiding distractions we can all keep ourselves out of harm's way."